Formula 2 title contender Gabriel Bortoleto has revealed that his ultimate dream is to progress to Formula 1 with McLaren, despite recent reports linking him with a potential drive for Sauber. The Brazilian driver is currently enjoying a successful rookie season with Invicta Racing in F2, sitting second in the standings with 129 points, just 36 points behind the leader, Isack Hadjar.
Speculation has arisen that Sauber’s new Chief Operating Officer, Mattia Binotto, has earmarked Bortoleto as a candidate to partner Nico Hulkenberg in 2025. However, Bortoleto remains focused on achieving his F1 ambitions with McLaren, where he is a junior driver under a long-term contract.
Speaking in a video interview with Motorsport.com’s Brazil subsidiary, Bortoleto expressed his excitement about being mentioned in F1 circles but emphasized his commitment to McLaren. “That’s nice, to be mentioned by an F1 person because that’s where you want to end up,” he said. “But let’s see what the future holds. I’m doing my job as best I can in F2, not in difficulty, but so that I’m ready to move up to F1. I’d say that’s my situation at the moment.”
Bortoleto acknowledged that McLaren’s current F1 lineup, featuring race-winning drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, presents limited opportunities for him within the team. However, he believes that McLaren supports his career growth and would not stand in the way of him exploring other options if they arise.
“The decision is made by me, as a driver, and I decide where I want to go,” Bortoleto stated. “I have power over my career. McLaren wants to see me succeed, they don’t want to trap me in any situation that doesn’t allow me to thrive in the sport, but obviously they want to keep me under the McLaren umbrella.”
Bortoleto is also managed by A14 Management, a team led by Fernando Alonso. He expressed full confidence in the guidance he receives from Alonso and his management team, saying, “I have full trust in McLaren and in my management, A14, from Fernando Alonso, Alberto, and Albert. So I have just full trust that we are going to take the best decision for my future.”
As Bortoleto continues to excel in Formula 2, his future in Formula 1 remains a subject of keen interest, with both McLaren and Sauber potentially playing key roles in his next career steps.
Photo from Gabriel Bortoleto Instagram
